updated 8/3/23: The Hayden fire continues to spread, with officials reporting 24,429 acres as the coverage area. Cooler temperatures and completion of burnout operations have allowed fire crews to shift their focus towards increasing the area between interior heat and the constructed line. Monsoonal moisture will continue moving into the area with a 25-30% chance of rain, but that also adds potential for thunderstorms.
Mop-up operations are underway to remove hot spots that could be a threat to the fireline. Trees with burned roots paired with the shifting wind will increase the risk. The wind could also cause more activity on the interior of the fire which has been sheltered from winds thus far.
The number of personnel involved in the suppression efforts continue to decrease and is at 655. Air support continues to assist ground crews. Officials report the fire is at 66% completion.
The Lemhi County Sheriff's Department in a coordination with the Salmon-Challis National Forest and Great Basin Team 7, has pre-identified evacuation zones. As of today, Zone 1 is now split into Zone 1A and Zone 1B. For more information on these evacuation zones visit the Lemhi County website
Stage 1 fire restrictions are in effect on the Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho Department of Lands, and Bureau of Land Management jurisdiction.
On Wednesday, a fire was reported in central Idaho; 33 miles south of Salmon and 18 miles west of Leadore.
The blaze is burning spruce, subalpine fir and heavy downed timber.
Crews are working to identify any risks between the fire's vicinity and Highway 28.
Officials say the risk to fire responders and public safety are top priorities for the Hayden Fire. They urge if you are recreating near an ongoing wildfire suppression operation, to keep your distance and allow firefighters to do their job safely.
The Salmon-Challis National Forest has a revised closure order in place to protect firefighters and the public. Maps and additional information can be found on the Alerts and Notices section of the SCNF website.
The Hayden fire is expected to be fully contained by October 1.
The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
This is an ongoing story. Check back for updates.
